Genetic linkage analysis of dermo-distortive urticaria

We have described a new hereditary physical urticaria, dermo-distortive urticaria (DDU) [1]. In an attempt to man the locus of this autosomal-dominant disorder and to further characterize it, a linkage analysis with 18 genetic markers was done. Close linkage of DDU with TCII, GALT, Gc, Fy, Kell, and Se was excluded. The most significant positive lod score was for the MNSs blood antigen system, which has a maximum lod score of 1.09 at theta = 0.24 for all 28 family members who were typed. Although close linkage with DDU is not demonstrated at any marker, this study illustrates how linkage analysis may prove to be of value in the characterization of newly discovered heritable disorders.